Nutrition for Body and Soul

Stop the Insanity: The Scientific Case for Ingesting Essential Oils

by Dr. Scott Johnson

The essential oil space has experienced tremendous growth over the last five years. This growth generated hundreds of thousands of new essential oils users that are forced to wade through the conflicting ocean of essential oil information that plagues the internet. One of the most hotly contested subjects is the ingestion of essential oils, with traditional aromatherapists bellowing the “dangers” and progressive essential oil experts championing the benefits.

One side largely relies on customary practices, whereas the progressives seek to find the answer to this divisive discussion through science. When you cut through all the rhetoric and objectively analyze the evidence, this dispute can be encapsulated in to four elements: 1) empowerment versus control, 2) potential, 3) knowledge, and 4) comfort level.

Empowerment Versus Control

Let’s start with the empowerment versus control aspect. Traditional aromatherapists seek to maintain control of an industry that has experienced rapid and dynamic change over the last decade. They seek to uphold the status quo and continue their heavy reliance on an antiquated and conservative aromatherapy paradigm established decades ago. By maintaining the status quo, they preserve their dominion and keep clients at their mercy. Of course, this traditional paradigm has merit that is valuable today, but as with Western medicine, new discoveries have enlarged our understanding of essential oils and how we can use them to reach the highest human potential.

Potential

As was mentioned in the previous paragraph, potential is a huge aspect of ingesting essential oils. Progressive essential oil experts advocate the use of all aspects of essential oils to their fullest potential—aromatic, topical, and internal. Oral administration has great advantages and is preferred in certain situations, such as when treating an infection or chronic condition. Waiting for transdermal absorption through the skin could allow an infection to overpower the individual and indeed puts the individual at great risk.

In addition, the number of bacteria in the body eclipses the number of cells, suggesting that human microbiome balance is crucial to overall wellness. It is naïve to think that topical use of essential oils will penetrate inside the stomach to influence any harmful bacteria residing there.

Another important aspect of oral administration is the metabolites (substances produced during metabolism) that are produced when essential oils are ingested. For example, one of the metabolites produced after the ingestion of limonene (found in abundance in citrus essential oils) is the anti-cancer compound perillic acid. Now, not all metabolites are good. Pulegone (found in pennyroyal and other essential oils) is metabolized to menthofuran, which is toxic to the liver and kidneys. This makes it important to understand the chemical make-up of an essential oil before ingesting it.

Knowledge

This leads us right into our third topic — knowledge. Ingesting essential oils requires a greater knowledge of essential oil composition, drug interactions, contraindications, dosage, and metabolism. However, this can all be obtained from advanced essential oil training or found in an evidence-based book. If you choose to take essential oils orally, you should seek this advanced knowledge and understanding first.

Knowledge from published studies is also telling. A review of the literature in PubMed shows that essential oils are administered orally safely and effectively in dozens of clinical studies, with burp back being the most common side-effect.

Comfort Level

Along with knowledge, an individual’s comfort level must be considered. If you are uncomfortable with ingesting essential oils, then limit your use to aromatic and topical use. These two methods still offer fantastic benefits depending on what you are striving to accomplish.

The bottom line is, the overwhelming evidence suggests that many essential oils are safe to ingest, and they produce remarkable systemic benefits that could not be achieved through other methods. It’s time to stop the insanity and endless debate over essential oil ingestion, and embrace the future of essential oils, which includes internal usage.

Scott A. Johnson is a naturopath, Certified Elite Essential Oil Specialist, Certified Clinical Master Aromatherapist, and Board Certified Alternative Medical Practitioner dedicated to raising healthier generations naturally. His evidence-based approach to natural medicine and enthusiasm for sharing wellness with the global masses makes him a world leader in natural medicine. Join his wellness community to get a free report on essential oils and MRSA.

Thank you so much for this info Dr. Scott Johnson! My favorite book on essential oils is one that Dr. Johnson wrote. If you are at all interested in essential oils….this book is a must! Evidence Based Essential Oil Therapy. I have a direct link to this book on my website www.food4thoughtwellness.com, or look it up on Amazon!

Dr. Monica Marcu is noted worldwide for her expertise on Moringa, as she has decades of experience in studying a variety of plants. Her study and research of Moringa is incorporated in her book Miracle Tree, a long-time favorite of Zija Independent Distributors. As a member of the Zija Product Advisory Council, she will be sharing her expertise and findings on Moringa. Below she explains how Moringa is valuable, convenient, and provides nutritional support to the elderly.

There are many metabolic and endocrine changes in our bodies when we grow old, and most health challenges associated with advanced age are linked to these changes. But being old (and wise!) does not mean one has to endure these challenges. Populations around the globe, who kept a natural, active way of life and wholesome, nutritious diet have proven that longevity and health can be achieved together. Actually, I believe it is very difficult to fall sick when one has all minerals, nutrients and vitamins necessary, in a good balance. But that is very rare; studies have shown that the majority of population, even in the developed world, lacks many essential nutrients.

The US Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee has recently reported on underconsumed nutrients—most vitamins (C, A, B, D, E) and minerals such as calcium, magnesium and potassium, with 45%, 50% and 97%, respectively, of population not being at required levels! Therefore, supplementation with nutrients is of the essence. Even if their diet would be rich and diverse, most elderly do not eat enough (gum and mastication problems), and digest and absorb nutrients poorly (insufficient intestinal enzymes). The best solution is a nutrient rich, diverse, easily absorbable food. Very few plants qualify.

A plant-based diet is a must, this can provide a majority of necessary minerals, vitamins, as well as antiaging and antiinflamatory substances. Moringa is the best plant/ food/supplement that is wholesome, nutrient dense, amenable to cooking (fresh), preservation (dried), easy transportation (light), with a rather neutral flavor that can complement sweet (smoothies, juices) or diverse salty dishes. It can accommodate any taste. Can you think of anything better?

I like the convenience of moringa, especially dried leaves as well as the awesome seed oil. One plant does it all- food, cosmetic care, multivitamin supplement. The high content of vitamin C – important for collagen (protein vital for the tissue structure) and skin – assures moringa is excellent not only against wrinkles, but also for cartilage and gum maintenance. As a high source of calcium, magnesium and phosphor, moringa brings minerals for bone and teeth density maintenance. Old age is associated with bone demineralization, and this is also due to insufficient proteins, but moringa contains all essential building blocks (amino acids) of proteins, useful for any tissues. Moringa, if grown properly, contains most, if not all minerals necessary for strong bones. Potassium is badly needed in most of us, as we tend to over-eat sodium rich foods.

These two minerals should be in a good balance, rarely found in elderly. Potassium supports a well-working heart and general metabolic health. Every cell needs and benefits from a proper potassium – sodium balance for energy production and communication. As we age, our tissues have more difficulties maintaining the normal minerals-, acidity/alkalinity and water balances. Moringa provides rich amounts of potassium, way better than the famous bananas, as well as magnesium – which works in balance with calcium.

Vitamins E and A are insufficient in over 90% and, respectively 40% of people older than 50! Moringa has large amounts of these vitamins. Both are powerful antioxidants, but also vital for healing, immune support, eye, brain and muscle function. Together with numerous antioxidant compounds present in dietary plants, these vitamins can support healthy immune and anti-inflammatory reactions. Again, a diverse plant-based diet is paramount for healthy aging.

The Moringa that is found online and in health food stores is either powder capsules or powders meant to mix with smoothies and other foods.

They are comprised of using dried and crushed leaves. While this is still better than nothing. Getting the complete nutritional benefit of Moringa comes from more than just the leaf.

Zija International has gone to great lengths to ensure that their proprietary blend uses the leaf, the seed cake, and the seed pod. All of these provide different core nutrients.

In addition to using various parts of the plant, Zija also shade dries their raw materials. This ensures that none of the components lose their enzymatic activity or bio-availability.

Zija also uses various age groups of the plant. Juvenile, adolescent, and mature plants. They discovered that the nutrient profiles were different at the various age groups.

Last but not least they studied the 58 species of Moringa from various countries and regions around the world. They found that the most nutrient dense hailed from India at the best of the Himalayas.

Given the nutritional profile of Zija’s Moringa the daily cost of this complete daily nutritional supplement is just about $3.00 a day.

**Through a promo the company is having, I have been issued some special Access Codes to share. You can try out the products that we use for ONLY $40 (which includes your enrollment fee AND shipping). The enrollment fee is for a wholesale membership, good for a year. Gives you 25% off of everything.

These are all natural, plant based products.

Here’s what you get for $40:

4 packs of Zija’s Supermix (Moringa Oleifera)

4 packs of Zija’s new all plant based protein (chocolate)

8 XMburn caps (energy throughout the day)

4 XM3 caps (appetite suppressant)

4 Premium teas for detoxing the body

A 25% off coupon on the XM3

I have a limited number of these Access Codes/Coupons ($40 kits) and they expire shortly. …So contact me if this sounds interesting… and I can get you more info!!!

Known as the “herb of remembrance,” Rosemary oil was considered sacred by ancient Greeks, Romans, Egyptians and Hebrews. It has been used as a natural remedy for centuries. Rosemary essential oil blends well with Thyme, Lemongrass, True Lavender and Peppermint oils, creating rich aromas and limitless applications.

BENEFITS

With a wide array of benefits, Rosemary oil is very popular among both novice and expert oil users. Health benefits include hair growth stimulation, boosted mental activity, and the promotion of normal respiratory function. It is also used topically in skin and beauty regimens. Rosemary oil is rich in antioxidants, which protect cells from damaging free radicals.

Massage a few drops of Rosemary oil into the feet daily, or take as a supplement in an Améo Veggie Cap, to provide your body with valuable antioxidants

Add a few drops of Rosemary oil to your daily shampoo, or massage directly into the scalp, to stimulate hair growth naturally

Rub 1-2 drops of Rosemary oil into palms and inhale to promote mental clarity and confidence

Rub a few drops of Rosemary oil directly onto affected areas of skin to help reduce the appearance of cellulite

Diffuse Rosemary, Cinnamon, Clove, Eucalyptus Radiata, and Lemon oils in an Améo diffuser to cleanse the air in your home, office or car

Dilute 5 drops of Rosemary oil, 3 drops of Peppermint oil, and 4 drops of True Lavender oil with 1 teaspoon of Améo Fractionated Coconut Oil and rub on sore feet after a walk or run

With a wide array of benefits, Rosemary oil is very popular among both novice and expert oil users. Health benefits include hair growth stimulation, boosted mental activity, and the promotion of normal respiratory function. It is also used topically in skin and beauty regimens. Rosemary oil is rich in antioxidants, which protect cells from damaging free radicals.

The powerful benefits of Zija have been validated with hundreds of thousands of positive individual experiences. To maximize Moringa’s remarkable health benefits, Zija enlisted the help of Dr. Joshua Plant, Biomedical Scientist. Moringa is changing lives every day, and we are positioned to deliver it to the world like never before!

While modern science is just now discovering the many benefits of Moringa, its uses and benefits date back thousands of years. Ancient Indian writings as far back as 150 BC refer to the Moringa tree and its healthful uses. Early Romans, Greeks and Egyptians prized its therapeutic properties and used it to protect skin, make perfume, and purify water for drinking.

Moringa has most recently been recognized by the National Geographic Society, the National Science Foundation, the United Nations World Food Program, and more.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH), part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the primary federal agency for conducting and supporting medical research, has also started to pay attention to Moringa. In March of 2008, it was featured in their “Mystery Plant Challenge”. The following are some highlights from that article:

This year’s mystery plant has important medicinal properties. Perhaps like no other single species, it has the potential to help reverse multiple major environmental problems and provide for many unmet human needs.
Unlike the plants in previous contests that came from Africa, it originally came from Tamil Nadu. It is now grown in many tropical areas of the world. It can easily be grown in drought, on poor, damaged soils and can also help to reclaim them. Its seeds also contain oil that can be used as a source of renewable energy.
All parts of this plant can be eaten. Its high-quality oil can be used in cooking and its leaves can be consumed as a tea or as a nutritious substitute for milk. The leaves are an excellent source of protein and iron, which cannot be found in many other plants.
It contains many vitamins and minerals, literally from A to zinc, and all of the essential amino acids.
It is grown in all countries of the world that experience malnourishment. It could save millions of lives. It can be used to purify polluted water, working as both a coagulant (for removal of turbidity) and as an anti-microbial. Extracts from its seeds can be used on a small or large scale as a low-cost, locally available alternative for water treatment chemicals.
It is known by over 100 names in different languages around the world.

Source: “What is IT? NIH Celebrates Earth Day 2008.” NIH Record 2008. Web.These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. Zija’s products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

ZIJA’S MORINGA

By Dr. Joshua Plant

Over the last 50 years we have observed the widespread commoditization of food. While it is cheaper and more readily available than ever before, the low-cost manufacturing and harvesting practices used to produce food have compromised its nutritional value. For example, 100 years ago the average person consumed around 200 grams of fiber daily; today that number is closer to 15 grams. The result is a worldwide nutritional famine.

The beneficial properties of Moringa are unparalleled and highly unique. Moringa is enriched with both water and fat-soluble vitamins, it is an excellent source of the amino acids that our body craves, and it has rare phytocompounds that aid in promoting a healthier body.

Recognizing that the nutrition in Moringa is not immune to harsh harvesting and manufacturing practices, Zija has gone above and beyond industry standards to deliver the most nutritious Moringa possible. From tree to mouth, Zija scrutinizes each step to ensure that nutrition is at the forefront of all decisions in the growing, harvesting, and manufacturing processes. I will address just a few of the steps that Zija takes to ensure that the nutrition of our products is never compromised; after all, Moringa without its nutrition becomes just another plant.

MORINGA FARMS

Not all Moringa is created equal. In fact, depending on where Moringa trees are grown, their nutritional content can vary significantly. Knowing this, Zija has vetted several different locations and farms where our Moringa trees will have the highest nutrient content available, even if it comes at a premium cost.

DRYING PROCESS

We work tirelessly to ensure that Moringa’s nutritional properties are conserved as much as possible during its harvesting and preparation. While shade drying is a much longer and more costly process than drying in the sun, it also prevents harmful UV rays from crosslinking vitamins and minerals, which would render them inert. This once again demonstrates Zija’s commitment to delivering the most nutritious Moringa possible.

MORINGA BLEND

Zija has created a proprietary blend that incorporates several different efficacious parts of the Moringa tree. This blend has allowed us to achieve a complementary nutritional profile. For example, even though Moringa leaves contain a lot of Vitamin C, the pods contain even more. By combining Moringa leaves, seeds, and fruit, we can maximize Moringa nutrition in products such as SmartMix, SuperMix, XMprotein, XMburn, XM+ Energy Mix, XM3 Energy Drink, XMam, and XMpm.

PRODUCT MANUFACTURING

As a leader in manufacturing technology, Zija uses state of the art machinery for each and every one of our products. Understanding that nutrition can be compromised by exposure to sunlight, oxygen, and time, we quickly blend and assemble our products into airtight sachets that meet the highest standards of manufacturing.

Here at Zija, we are unwilling to compromise the nutritional value of Moringa. In doing so we are able to deliver a highly valuable product that helps address the nutritional void that is so prevalent in today’s diet.These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. Zija’s products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
[Dr. Joshua Plant: Zija’s Biomedical Scientist]

DR. JOSHUA PLANT

Josh graduated first in his class from Harvard Medical School with a Ph.D. in biomedical sciences. He has done extensive research and been published himself on various health and nutrition topics. He works meticulously to ensure that the quality and nutritional value of Zija’s products is second to none.

BENEFITS OF A PLANT-BASED DIET & MORINGA’S PROTEINS

Dr. Monica Marcu is noted worldwide for her expertise on Moringa, as she has decades of experience in studying a variety of plants. Her study and research of Moringa is incorporated in her book Miracle Tree, a long-time favorite of Zija Independent Distributors. As a member of the Zija Product Advisory Council, she will be sharing her expertise and findings on Moringa. Below she shares information about the benefits of a plant-based diet and Moringa’s proteins:

More and more people in the Western world are embracing a vegetarian or even vegan diet. The medical science has proven in a number of studies and long-term research that a diet with less red meat is significantly healthier and may lead to less health problems. But you don’t have to be a “full time” vegetarian to understand the benefits of a plant-rich food, anybody can notice that by reducing the meat intake and upping the fruits, grains, nuts or veggies, one can feel better and have an improved health, obtain the desired weight loss. But the vegetarians, vegans, as well as all elderly have to pay attention and make sure they get enough proteins and their protein sources are complete.

A “complete protein” refers to the amino acids – the building blocks of proteins. There are twenty different amino acids that can form the proteins in our bodies, in all tissues. Nine of them are called “essential” since the body can’t produce them and have to be supplied by the food. In order to be a complete protein source, a food must contain all nine essential amino acids in roughly equal amounts. The truth is that this is not that easily found among most plants used in the diet today. Eggs and dairy are complete proteins – lucky for the vegetarians, but how about vegans?

Let’s remember that proteins are found in every cell and act as a fuel source for the body, are crucial for muscle growth and repair among others. Lentils, spirulina, nutritional yeast or brown rice are good sources of proteins, but there is an even better one – Moringa oleifera. Its leaves have the highest protein ratio of any plant described so far, while they are comparable in quality to that of soy (a protein-rich plant). Even more, moringa is grown naturally and not genetically modified, and also is not known to induce food allergies by comparison with soy. Moringa contains most of the twenty amino acids, including all nine of the essential ones. When compared to (cow) milk, for instance, which is a favored source of proteins, moringa leaf powder is shown to contain between 5 to 11 times more of each of the essential amino acids, truly remarkable. Tofu (a product of soy) contains all essential amino acids but in less amounts than moringa powder: four times less threonine and tryptophan, three times less leucine or methionine, two times less valine and so on. Moringa oleifera leaf powder is about 25% protein, unusually high for a plant, so one needs to take relatively small amounts of powder to obtain all essential amino acids. A baby needs about 1 g of protein per kg per day, so a baby under one year would need about 10 g proteins, which are found in 3 spoons of powder. To benefit from moringa leaf powder and its proteins add it to smoothies, soups, sauces, juices, and even bread and pastries. Enjoy!